Dog Facts: 5 Interesting Things You May Not Know
Do you have a canine family member in your home (or perhaps even several)? Well, here are 5 interesting dog facts that you may have not known!
Dogs Only Sweat From Their Paws (And Their Noses)
Unlike humans, dogs can only sweat from certain parts of their bodies. Both their paws and noses have sweat glands called the eccrine glands. While these areas do secrete moisture, they don't necessarily contribute much to regulating a dog's body temperature. Scientists believe that the wetness from a dog's nose is actually to help improve their sense of smell. And the moisture from a dog's paw pads may actually be more to help with traction rather than to help keep them cool. So, how do your canine buddies keep from overheating? Dog's primarily keep themselves cool by panting instead. The moisture evaporating from their tongue, nasal passage, and lungs, allows them to maintain their body temperature.
Dogs Can See More Colors Than Just Black and White
Experts had previously believed that dogs could only see black and white. However, we now know that dogs can actually see blues, yellows, greys, and browns. This is because, unlike humans, dogs have only two cones in their eyes, which limits their range of color vision. Interestingly, the most popular colors for dog toys are red and orange. However, these appear only as a dull brown or black to your pet and can actually be difficult for them to see.
Dog Facts: Their Whiskers Serve A Purpose!
Remember those adorable doggie whiskers on your pup's face? Those whiskers are actually a type of hair called vibrissae and help them to gauge objects and their relation to them in space. Unlike every other hair on their body, these whiskers are connected to the nervous system. In fact, vibrissae are so sensitive they can actually sense subtle changes in airflow!
Dogs Can See In The Dark
While dogs can't see quite as well as cats, they can see better than humans in the dark. One reason is that their pupils are larger, allowing more light to enter. Additionally, their retinas have a larger number of light and motion sensing rods. Overall, dogs can see about 5 times better in the dark than their human companions.
Dogs Are Not Generally Fans Of Storms
When it comes to dog facts, this one is particularly interesting. Dogs are able to sense changes in barometric pressure and static electricity, allowing them to tell when a storm is approaching. And because of their highly sensitive hearing, the sound of falling rain and thunder can be particularly distressing. As such, many dogs will get excited or anxious right before and during a storm.
Hopefully, you've learned some new facts about your furry family member! And if you need someone to help care for your pet while you're away from home, our professional pet sitters are here to help. Reach out today to schedule your personal consultation!